Explore the UK Innovator Founder route, endorsement, in-country switching, maintenance funds, application fees and healthcare surcharge with CMB.
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The business must be new, innovative, viable and scalable. An approved endorsing body assesses the proposal. Setting up a company or purchasing a routine business does not, by itself, meet the visa requirements.
Applicants must be 18 or over, satisfy the English-language requirement and meet the financial rules. For a new business, the endorsing body examines funding and its source. Personal maintenance money is separate from business investment.
Where required, the main applicant needs £1,270 held for 28 consecutive days. The requirement depends on the application and time already spent in the UK. Additional family members have separate requirements.
We welcome enquiries from people already in the UK. Your current permission must allow switching. Visitors and people on immigration bail are among those excluded. Student applicants normally need to have completed their sponsored course, or studied a full-time PhD for at least 24 months.
Permission is normally for 3 years. Mandatory endorsing-body contact points take place at 12 and 24 months. Extension and possible settlement each require the relevant criteria to be met; incorporation alone does not secure either.
Reviewed 29 September 2026 · Government charges and professional costs are separate.
| Item | Amount / basis | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Visa: applying outside the UK | £1,357 | Per applicant. |
| Visa: switching / extending in the UK | £1,693 | Per applicant. |
| Endorsement | £1,000 | Paid to the approved endorsing body; VAT may apply. |
| Two mandatory contact points | £1,000 total | £500 each; VAT may apply. |
| Adult healthcare surcharge | Usually £3,105 for 3 years | £1,035 per year; exact assessment can differ. |
One adult over 3 years. Includes two mandatory contact points in the overall plan. Excludes VAT where applicable, dependants, maintenance funds, business investment, professional and priority fees.
Endorsement and visa decisions are made by the relevant body and authorities. Professional fees, translations and any priority services are additional.
Information reviewed 29 September 2026. Fees and rules can change; use the official route guidance before applying.
Introduce your business idea and the stage it has reached. The initial enquiry helps identify the information and professional input you need to consider. Personal immigration advice or representation requires an appropriately authorised adviser or solicitor.
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